February 15

Our Old Testament reading for today us shows us how God set His manifest presence above His people Israel as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land. Seen as a column or pillar of cloud by day whose inner fire became visible at night, the glory of God brought three blessings to His people:

Protection – Visible to all the nations around them, the cloud of God’s presence struck fear into the hearts of the pagan peoples living in their path. It also came down and provided a barrier between Pharaoh’s armies and the Israelites while they were waiting for God to part the waters of the Red Sea, as well as preventing the sun and the moon from "smiting" them.

Provision – As the Israelites lived and walked in God’s presence, they experienced His abundance for every area of their need. The manna fell from out of the cloud every day. As they followed the cloud, neither their clothing nor their shoes wore out.

Direction – When the cloud moved, the Israelites had to move. This could happen at any time without warning so it was extremely important for the Israelites to remain sensitive to any movement by the cloud. This is one of the most interesting aspects of the role the cloud of God’s presence played in the life of His people, because it appears that much of their 40 years in the wilderness was spent going in circles…! If they were following the cloud, my question is, “Why?” I think the answer lies at least partly in the fact that they were not learning the lessons God was trying to teach them.

As you and I pursue the manifest presence of God in our own lives, we will experience these same three blessings! As a church like the one at Antioch, God wants us to be known as a church where people feel God’s presence every time we come together. Under the New Covenant, we are the Temple God wants to abide in by His Spirit. God’s presence is not bound to a place or a building. We are called to carry His presence everywhere we go!

As I ponder these things, I think of how Moses told the Lord that the only way he and the Israelites could go up and possess the Promised Land was if the Lord’s presence went with them (Ex. 33:14-15). After Moses died and Joshua was positioned by the Lord to lead the people, the people agreed to follow Joshua’s leadership provided the Lord was with him the way He had been with Moses (Josh. 1:17). That is exactly the sentiment of my own heart when I pray about our church and our future. As long as God is with us, no matter where He takes us, everything will be all right…!